Bonifacio Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip to Bonifacio, Corsica with this comprehensive travel guide that covers everything from the best places to visit to where to stay and what to eat.


Introduction to Bonifacio

Nestled at the southern tip of the island of Corsica in France, Bonifacio is a breathtakingly beautiful medieval town with a rich history. It is a popular tourist destination, renowned for its stunning coastal views, rugged landscapes, and crystal-clear waters. The town is built atop a cliff, offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the rocky coastlines of Sardinia.

List of Places to Visit in Bonifacio

Bonifacio is packed with plenty of tourist attractions, historical sites, and natural wonders. Here are some of the must-visit places in Bonifacio:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Bastion de L’Etendard
  • The Citadel
  • King of Aragon Steps
  • St. Marie Majeure Church
  • Bonifacio Cemetery

Natural Attractions of Bonifacio: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lavezzi Islands
  • Plage de Calalonga
  • Impressive Cliffs of Bonifacio
  • Grotte di Bonifacio
  • Plage de la Tonnara

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bonifacio

Bonifacio is surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery you’ll ever see. Whether you’re looking for easy hikes or more challenging trails, there is something for everyone. Here are some hiking/biking routes you might want to check out:

  • Sentier des Douaniers
  • GR 20 Walking Trail
  • The Bonifacio Coastal Trail
  • Col de Bavella Mountain Range

Best Things to Do in Bonifacio: Activities and Tours

There is an abundance of activities and tours to choose from in Bonifacio. Here are some of the best ones:

  • Boat Tours
  • Scuba Diving
  • Jet Skiing
  • Canyoning
  • Kayaking
  • Horseback Riding

Week-Long Itinerary for Bonifacio

If you plan to spend a week in Bonifacio, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Explore the Old Town of Bonifacio Day 2: Visit the Bastion de L’Etendard and the Citadel Day 3: Take a boat tour to the Lavezzi Islands Day 4: Hike the GR 20 walking trail Day 5: Try some water sports like jet skiing or scuba diving Day 6: Enjoy a leisurely horseback ride Day 7: Relax on the beach at Plage de la Tonnara

Food and Drink Scene of Bonifacio

Bonifacio has a rich culinary tradition, boasting a mix of French and Italian cuisines. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Civet De sanglier
  • Brocciu
  • Fiadone
  • Truite
  • Figatellu

Local Beverages

  • Pietra beer
  • Cedratine
  • Muscat du Cap Corse

Where to Stay in Bonifacio: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bonifacio offers a range of accommodation types that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some recommendations:

  • Hotel Genovese
  • Hôtel Version Maquis
  • U Capu Biancu Hotel
  • Hôtel A Madonetta

What to Buy in Bonifacio: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking to buy souvenirs and local products to take home, here are some recommendations:

  • Traditional Corsican knives
  • Wine and spirits
  • Basketry
  • Locally made honey and preserves

Local Culture and Customs of Bonifacio

The people of Bonifacio take pride in their culture and traditions. Corsican is the official language of the island, but many residents are bilingual and speak French as well. The town has a strong fishing culture that is still evident in its cuisine.

Best Time to Visit Bonifacio

The best time to visit Bonifacio is during the summer months between June and September when the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also the busiest time of the year, so expect crowds and higher prices.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bonifacio

Here are some things to keep in mind when traveling to Bonifacio:

Do:

  • Respect the locals and their customs
  • Take a boat tour to the Lavezzi Islands
  • Visit the Bastion de L’Etendard and the Citadel
  • Try some local dishes and beverages
  • Enjoy the natural beauty of the area

Don’t:

  • Swim or dive in restricted areas
  • Leave litter or cigarette butts
  • Park your car in restricted areas

Safety and Health

Bonifacio is a safe place to visit, but like any destination, it’s important to take some precautions. Here are some safety and health tips:

Safety in Bonifacio

  • Avoid leaving your belongings unattended on the beach
  • Be careful while driving on winding roads
  • Take care when swimming in the sea

Health in Bonifacio

  • Use sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun
  • Stay hydrated during hot weather
  • Watch out for jellyfish in the water

Getting to Bonifacio: Transportation Options and Logistics

Bonifacio is easily accessible from Corsica and the French mainland. Here are some options:

Airports Near Bonifacio

  • Figari-Sud Corse Airport
  • Ajaccio Napoleon Bonaparte Airport
  • Bastia-Poretta Airport

Bus Stations Near Bonifacio

  • SNCM
  • CTM

Other Options

  • Car rentals
  • Ferry services

How to Get Around in Bonifacio

Bonifacio is a small town, and most attractions are within walking distance. Taxis and car rentals are also available for longer trips outside the town.

Where to Go Next from Bonifacio: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions you can explore:

  • Sardinia
  • Ajaccio
  • Porto-Vecchio
  • Santa Teresa Gallura

Conclusion

Bonifacio is an unforgettable travel destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With this guide, you can explore the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventure-packed getaway, Bonifacio is the perfect place to visit.

The citadel from the port The citadel from the port Pleasure boats at the port Pleasure boats at the port Chemin de Ronde, which is closed Chemin de Ronde, which is closed Steps of the Aragon King Steps of the Aragon King Lavezzi archipelago Lavezzi archipelago Promenade at the old harbour Promenade at the old harbour